Vertical Insulating Concrete Forms

What is TF System® - Vertical Insulating Concrete Forms?
Insulating Concrete Forms (ICFs) are a stay-in-place concrete forming method that serve as a functional part of the wall after the concrete is poured. The TF System® ICF consists of two main components: high-density polystyrene panels and plastic or galvanized steel I-beams. On site, these components are erected as vertical concrete wall forms. When filled with concrete, they form solid, energy efficient walls to create a high performance structure. TF System® is used to construct frost walls, basements, and above grade walls in both residential and commercial construction.

Why is the Vertical ICF better?
The Vertical ICF system has been engineered to solve the common problems of horizontal ICF design. The vertical orientation eliminates the possibility of wall form floating and settling, providing a wall that is dimensionally accurate. There is no need for gluing, taping, or tying components together, making assembly simple and efficient. The components form the walls, provide insulation, create a vapor barrier, and serve as convenient and predictable attachment points - ALL IN ONE EASY STEP.

Benefits of TF System Vertical ICFs:

• Install One Side at a Time - Because of the unique open design, reinforcement schedules are simple to install and tie in the desired pattern.
• Easy to Learn - Contractors prefer working with this system because its vertical orientation and stud design are similar to conventional framing. The design is based on conventional concrete forming methods - crews are very comfortable adapting to it and quickly learn to build with it.
• Forming With Integral Strength - Because of the structure and vertical orientation, the TF System® is easier to keep walls straight, with no vertical bowing, no floating parts and no possibility of settling during and after the concrete pour.
• Increased Safety - Vertical ICFs can be assembled while standing at ground or floor level. No climbing up and down to install blocks or plastic crossties.
• Efficient Installation - No 2x4's nailed to footing; No uprights every 4 to 8 feet; No multiple walers; No ladder bracing at top; No taping; and No tying components together.
• Concrete Consolidation - TF System® was engineered to allow for concrete consolidation.
• Adjustable Brick Ledge - Vertical ICFs can accommodate all types of floor systems and provide brick or stone ledges at any height desired.
• Fewer Splice Cuts - No cutting through wires, metal, or plastic. No staggering joints or lining up special notches or ties before cutting pieces. Less waste.
• Wall Accessibility - The TF System® is the only ICF that allows access to the inside wall cavity. No worrying about forgotten reinforcing. No problem enabling building inspectors to view rebar.
• Wall Cavity Sizes - 4", 6", 8", 10", 12", 14", 16", 18", 20", 22", 24"

Click here to link to the TF System® web site.